Implications for HIV-Related Advocacy
The survey findings highlight the urgent need for advocacy against HIV criminalization laws and anti-LGBTQ policies to protect patient well-being and public health. Survey respondents identified the role of providers in advocating for policy reform as essential—not only to safeguard patient rights but also to create a care environment where patients feel safe and supported. By working toward policy changes, providers can help reduce barriers to HIV prevention, treatment, and support, ultimately improving health outcomes for patients facing discrimination and legal stigmatization.
Advocating Against HIV Criminalization and Anti-LGBTQ Policies to Safeguard Patient Well-Being
HIV criminalization laws and anti-LGBTQ policies pose profound risks to patient well-being and public health. Providers are positioned to play a key role in advocating against these policies, both to protect patient rights and to foster an environment where patients feel safe accessing care. By supporting policy reform efforts, providers help reduce barriers to HIV prevention, treatment, and support, improving overall health outcomes for patients facing discrimination and legal stigmatization.
To effectively address the pressing concerns surrounding HIV, advocacy priorities must be flexible and cross-disciplinary, incorporating adaptable strategies that integrate diverse fields and perspectives.
Key Advocacy Priorities from Survey Findings
By focusing on these areas, advocates can work towards a more equitable and effective approach to HIV care.
Long-Term Funding
- Prioritize workforce growth at local, state, and federal levels.
- Significant expansion of the HIV care workforce is essential to meet the U.S. goal of Ending the HIV Epidemic by 2030.
Sustainable Change
- Even with increased funding and new staff, lasting improvements depend on addressing entrenched inequities in policy.
Policy Advocacy
- Fight for Medicaid expansion in the remaining ten states.
- Advocate for greater oversight of private insurance practices.
- Confront harmful policies, such as gender-affirming care bans that have been enacted in 26 states.19 Nearly all respondents believe that these harmful policies directly affect the health of their clients and patients.